Spotting the issues that can affect the structural integrity early is vital and can potentially save you money whilst avoiding lasting damage occurring. The problem is knowing what you should be looking for. Here are 7 ways in which you can check to see if your property is suffering with structural integrity issues. Whilst it is understandable that finding issues with the structural integrity of your home may cause concern there are things that can be done to rectify this. Steel reinforcement can often be used to repair the damage and help to strengthen your home. 

Interior issues

If you’ve invested heavily in your property it’s important to spot the little interior signs that could indicate that you have a structural problem that needs looking at. They may not be immediately obvious but over time they can get worse, and you may find yourself questioning why these things are occurring. Or, if you rent your property, it might be wise to give your tenants a heads up to inform you as soon as they spot any of the following,

1. Windows and doors

Things to look out for include not being able to open and close your windows and doors properly. Whilst this is potentially a security risk it could be an indication that there is some movement in the foundation of your property that needs to be looked at urgently. 

2. Cracks and gaps

If large cracks appear in your walls, these might be around your windows or running from your doors to the ceiling, they could even be horizontal across your walls then these could indicate structural problems. Likewise gaps at either the top or bottom of your walls should be checked. 

3. Bulging and bowing

You may also notice your walls bulging or bowing. Whilst this may be a more common issue in older properties it should always be a point of concern as it could be an indication that the walls are not in fact thick enough for the height of the property, that the property is struggling from extended exposure to heavy traffic or that there is an increase in pressure due to the addition of extra floors to the home.

Exterior issues

Because some of the indications of structural damage can only be seen from the exterior of your property do not rely on simply looking for them inside.

4. Exterior wall cracks and sloping

Check regularly for cracks in the exterior walls of your property, if you see any zigzag, horizontal or even vertical cracks they could indicate that there is an issue that needs to be looked at closer. It can also be a good idea to look at your property from a little further away to check it isn’t sloping

5. Wall separation 

Another issue that is relatively easy to spot and that is a sure-fire indication that you are suffering with foundation problems is if there is some separation occurring on your walls. This is usually quite easy to spot and will appear in the form of larger cracks under windows, where the roof meets the walls or even where two walls meet. 

6. Bricks cracking

Cracks in your brickwork, including in the masonry joints are also something to look out for as they may indicate that the foundations of your property are shifting. 

7. Leaning or cracked chimney

Whilst you are looking at your home from a little distance, don’t forget to have a look up and take stock of your chimney. Cracks alone are not necessarily an indication that you have structural issues however this is still something that you should get checked by a professional. If, however, you notice that your chimney is leaning then this may indicate structural issues. Either way issues with your chimney can cause huge safety concerns so it is best to get them looked at and rectified immediately.